Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is essential for revealing the deeper meanings within the scriptures. The word ἐπιθυμέω (epithyméō), Strong’s G1937, is particularly significant as it encompasses a range of meanings related to desire, longing, and coveting. This term is relevant to New Testament interpretation, especially in discussions about human desires, temptations, and the ethical boundaries set by Biblical teachings. In ancient Greek culture, the concept of desire was a fundamental topic in both philosophical and ethical discourse, reflecting its complexity and significance.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπιθυμέω (epithyméō) [eh-pee-thoo-MEH-o]
• Etymology Root Words: From ἐπί (epi, “upon” or “toward”) and θυμός (thymos, “passion” or “strong desire”), meaning “to desire upon” or “to have strong desire for.”
• Part of Speech: Verb. This word follows standard Greek verb conjugation patterns.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To desire, long for, or covet.
• To set one’s heart upon something or someone.
• To have a strong or intense longing for.

Similar Words: Related Greek words include θέλω (thélō) [THEH-lo], meaning “to wish” or “to want,” and ἐράω (eráō) [eh-RA-o], meaning “to love” or “to have a passionate desire for.” While θέλω denotes a general wish or desire, ἐπιθυμέω (epithyméō) emphasizes a more intense longing or craving, often with a focus on coveting or desiring something not rightfully one’s own. ἐράω typically refers to romantic or passionate love, which is a more specific kind of desire.

Further Insights: The verb ἐπιθυμέω is formed by combining the prefix ἐπί (epi-), meaning “upon” or “toward,” with θυμός (thymos), meaning “passion” or “strong feeling.” This construction intensifies the concept of desire, suggesting an overwhelming or powerful longing directed towards an object or goal. In Biblical contexts, it can carry a neutral or negative connotation depending on the object of desire—whether it is something good, like righteousness, or something sinful, like coveting another’s possessions.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Describes ἐπιθυμέω as “to have a strong desire to do or secure something,” often implying a sense of coveting or craving. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the object of the desire.
• Thayers: Defines ἐπιθυμέω as “to desire, long for, covet,” specifically noting that it often implies a longing for what is forbidden or not rightfully one’s own. It appears in moral teachings where the restraint of desire is emphasized.
• Vines: Highlights that ἐπιθυμέω implies “an intense desire or longing,” sometimes with a focus on sensual or selfish desires, but also used in positive contexts when referring to spiritual aspirations or desires for good things.
• LSJ: In classical Greek literature, ἐπιθυμέω is noted to mean “to set one’s heart upon,” especially in contexts of longing or craving for something that stirs the emotions or passions. It often appears in philosophical discussions on ethics and self-control.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes it as “to desire or covet,” typically implying an intense or passionate longing for something, whether it be positive or negative in nature. The term is frequently used in the context of human desires and moral teachings.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 5:28: “But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust (ἐπιθυμῆσαι) for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
• Luke 15:16: “And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the swine ate, and no one gave him anything.” (Note: The verse context implies a strong desire or craving, often associated with ἐπιθυμέω.)
• Romans 7:7: “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, ‘You shall not covet (ἐπιθυμήσεις).'”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπιθυμέω (G1937)

The Greek word ἐπιθυμέω (epithyméō) is a verb that means “to desire,” “to long for,” or “to covet.” It is significant in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, where it describes an intense longing or craving for something, often with an implication of covetousness or improper desire. In the New Testament, it is used to describe both negative desires, such as lust or covetousness, and positive desires, such as longing for righteousness or spiritual growth. Its use in classical texts reflects its broader application in ethical discussions, where controlling desires was seen as a key aspect of virtuous living.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek philosophy, especially in the works of Plato and Aristotle, the concept of desire (ἐπιθυμέω) was considered one of the fundamental aspects of human behavior that needed to be managed through reason and self-control. They believed that unchecked desires could lead to moral corruption, while a well-regulated desire could contribute to a balanced and virtuous life. This philosophical perspective influenced later Christian thought, which similarly emphasized the importance of controlling one’s desires in pursuit of spiritual growth and moral integrity.